Direction control device



Aug-12,1947. s. G. OHLENDORF" 2,425,55

DIRECTION CONTROL DEVICE Filed March 17 1943 4 Sheets-Sheet l ATTDR N KY5 Aug. 12, 1947- s. G. OHLENDORF DIRECTION CONTROL DEVICE Filed March 1'7, 1943 4 Sheets-Sheet 3 ATTORNEYS Aug. 12, 1947. G. 5; OHLENDORF DIRECTION CONTROL DEVICE 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed March 17-, 1943 IENTOR.

ATTD R N EYE Patented Aug. 12,1947

2,425,558 nmac'rro'n common navrca earners o. Ohiemdorf, Whitsett, Tex. Application March 17, 1943, Serial No. 479,525

2 Claims. (Cl. Rim-=3) My invention relates :to bombs of the type which are dropped from aircraft, and has among its objects and advantages the provision of an improved direction control device for changing the path of descent of the bomb to the end that it may be effectively guided to the intended objective. a

In the accompanying drawings:

Figure 1 is an .elevational view of a bomb in accordance with my invention.

Figure-2 is a nose end view.

Figure 3 is a rear end view.

Figure 4 is a detailview partly in section of an antenna latch.

Figure 5 is a view taken from the position indicated by line 5-5 of Figure 4.

Figure 6 is a fragmentary perspective view of a switch for controlling the circuit which actuates the rudders for restraining the bomb from rotation about its longitudinal axis.

Figure 7 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view through the tail portion of the bomb.

Figure 8 is a transverse sectional view.

Figure 9 is a view illustrating a motor controlled linkage which operates the rotation con: trolling rudders.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the linkage and rudders controlled by the motor of Figure 9.

Figure 11 is a diagrammatic view of the controlled circuits which guide the bomb in flight.

Figure 12 is a diagrammatic view of the con trol circuit for functionally and selectively influencing the circuit of Figure lly'and Figure 13 is a fragmentary circuit illustration comprising a part of the circuit of Figure 11.

In the embodiment of the invention selected Y for illustration, Figure 1 illustrates a bomb which includes a streamlined body 22. The leading end margin of the bomb may be conventional with respect to the exploding charge and firing mechanism. The circuit structure of Figure 11 is housed in the tail margin of the bomb.

More specifically, the bomb 20 includes four airfoils '24 which extend throughout the full length of the bomb, are spaced 90 degrees apart circumferentially oi the bomb, and are streamlined when viewed from their outer edges. These airfoils are fixedly related to'the bomb. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate the spacing of the airfoils, while Figure 1 illustrates annular airfoils 26 and 28 respectively fixedly related to the forward and rear ends of the airfoils 24. The airfoils 26 and 28 are arranged concentrically of the bomb body 22 and at right angles to its longitudinal axis.

Means for steering or altering the course of 'tive airroils the bomb when released from its carrier, such as an aircraft, comprise four rudders it and 32 located at the rear end of the bomb. These rudders normally lie in the planes of the respec- Zd, so that two rudders 30 lie in a common/plane, whil the rudders 32 also lie in a common plane but at right angles to the plane of the rudders 80.

Figures 1' and 7 illustrate the rudders so and 32 as being spaced slightly one from the other .at their inner ends, and the rudders are pivotally connected at at with their respective airfoils 2d.

In Figures 7 and 11 the rudders 80 are provided with arms 38 pivotally connected at 38 with rods 60 extending loosely through openings d? in the bomb shell 66. Both bars are provided with right-angular formations t6 pivotally connected at 48 with a slidable control rod 50. The rod 50 is mounted for axial movement in supports 52, the rod being preferably of noncircular formation as to be restrainedfrom rotation. Thus longitudinal movement of the control rod 50 actuates the rods 50 for imparting simultaneous pivotal movement to the two rudders 3B.

The rudders 32 are also provided with arms 5% pivotally connected with rods 56 extending.

through openings 58 in the shell at. These rods are pivotally connected at 60 62 also slidably guided in the supports 52 in the same manner as the control rod 50. Accordingly the rudders 32 are also simultaneously actuated about their pivotal axis through longitudinal movement of the control rod .52.

In the gravitatiorial'descent of the bomb, the airfoils 2t and the annular airfoils 26 and 28 function as carrying wings. At the same time the course ofthe bomb may be altered through selective operation of the rudders 86 and 32. For the sake of clearness in the description of the bomb guiding facilities, the rudders 'areconsidered as having horizontal positions and the their normal positions will cause the bomb to ascend in its course, while movement oi the rudders in the other direction from normal will cause the bomb to descend. Similarly pivotal movement of the rudders 32 in one direction from their normal positions causes the bomb to be deflected to the left, whilemovement of the rudders in the opposite direction from normal causes a deflection to the right. In the same manner, the course of the bomb maybe altered in other directions through a combination movement of the two sets with a control rod of rudders, so that the bomb may be accurately directed to a given objective. v

In order to maintain effective directional control of the bomb, means are provided for restraining the bomb from rotation about its longitudinal axis. This means comprise two orientation rudders 64 located intermediate the ends of the bomb 20 and spaced 180 degrees apart. In Figures 9, and 11 the orientation rudders 64 are attached to coaxial shafts 66 rotatably mounted in the shell 44 and each provided with an arm 68. These arms are respectively connected with control links 10 pivotally connected together at 12 and with an arm 14 fixed to a rotative gear 16. The arms 68 are so arranged with respect to each other that the shafts 66 and their attached orientation rudders 64 are simultaneously rotated in opposite directions through movement of the links 10, the arm 14 and the gear 16 constituting a crank for imparting movement to the links 10 through rotation of the gear.

Both orientation rudders 64 he closely adjacent the shell 44. Rotation of the bomb 20 about its longitudinal axis is restrained through the action of the orientation rudders 64. Means are provided airfoil 2B.

aerial to an operating position, wherein the aerial projects radially and rearwardly from the bomb. This spring has one end attached to the section 1. H2 andits other end fastened to the airfoil 28.

for automatically actuating the orientation rud- A;

ders 64 to restrain the bomb from rotation as any rotation takes place.

In Figure 11 electric motors 18 and 80 of the reversible type are provided for respectively controlling the rudders and 32. These motors respectively drive worms 82 and 84 meshing with worm gears 86 and 88, respectively. The two gear assemblies are identical in construction andoperation so that the description of one will apply to both.

Referring to Figure '1 the worm gear 86 is threadedly connected with a screw 80 comprising a part of the control rod 50. This screw extends loosely through openings 92 in brackets 84 fixed to a support 96 comprising aportion of the supports 52. The worm gear 86 is located between the brackets 94 and is restrained from relative axial movement, so that rotation of the worm gear imparts longitudinal'motion to the control rod 50.-

In Figures 1 through 5, four aerial 98, are employed, which aerials are respectively operatively associated with radio receiver units I00. I02, I04 and I06, see Figure 11.

All the aerials 98 are similar in construction and operation so that the description of one will apply to all. Figure 1 illustrates the aerials in their normal positions before the bomb is releasedirom its carrier. The aerials are pivotally mounted on the annular airfoil 28, the serials being located 90 degrees apart and arranged to pivot in planes paralleling the longitudinal axis of the bomb.

Figures 4 and 5 illustrate one aerial and its pivotal mount. A bracket I08 is fixed to the annular airfoil 28 and the aerial 88 includes two fixedly related sections H0 and N2, the section M2 being pivotally connected at H0 with the bracket I08. An insulating coupling 'II6 fixedly connects the sections H0 and H2 in axial alignment, and the aerial tapers uniformly from one end to the other, the larger diameter end terminating with the section I I2.

The aerials 88 when viewed according to Figure 1 are arranged in converging relationship with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bomb 20. Such arrangement of the aerials is releasably maintained by latches II8. In Figures 4 and 5 the latch II8 comprises a hook I20 pivot- Means for releasably holding the hook member I20 in its latching position of Figure 4 comprises a line or flexible cable I32 passing loosely through an opening I 34 in the airfoil 28 and around a grooved sheave I86 mounted on the airfoil. Each hook member I20 is provided with a line I32 all of which are tied to a short line I34 passing loosely through an opening in the airfoil 28 and attached to a ring I36. This ring may be slipped over one of the usual latches associated with bomb racks for maintaining the lines I32 sufficiently taut. As the bomb is released, the ring I36 will of course slip off the latch and permit the springs I30 to pivot the aerials to their operating positions.

In Figures 11 and 13, the control bar 50 in- I switch member I38 in a normal position, at which timelioth elements I44 and I46 are in closed positions. These elements respectively carry contacts I48 and I60 normally engaging contacts I52 and I54, respectively. The contact I52 is electrically connected with a wire I56, while the contact I54 is electrically connected with a wire I58.

A switch arm I60 i also provided for the control rod 62, this arm being provided with insulating contacts I62 and I64 selectively engageable with switch elements I66 and I68, respectively. These switch elements are provided with contacts I10 and I12 normally engaging contacts I14 and I16, respectively. Wires I18 and I80 are respectively connected with the contacts I14 and I16. The two switch'assemblie I82 and I84 associated with the switch arms I38 and I60, respectively are identical, each being opened through axial movement of the respective control rods 50 and 62.

For bomb controlling purposes, the radio recomprise fixed contacts 202, 204 and 206, which in turn are respectively associated with contacts 208, 2I0 and 2I2. Control levers 2I4 are respectively connected with the contacts 208, 2I0,and 2I2; having a common pivot 2I6 and connected with the insulated part 2I8 of an armature 220 controlled by the relay I 86. A tension spring 222 i connected with the armature 220 to bias the latter away from the relay I86 for closing theswitches I86, I88 and 200.

Such energization of the relay I86 is controlled by the radio receiver .unit I88. The

wire in is electrically connected with the contact 284, while the switch element I68 is electrically connected with a wire 224 electrically connected with the contact 282.

An armature 226is operatively associated with the relay I88,. which armature includes an insulating body 228 connected with levers .238 mounted on a common pivot 232. These levers are respectively connected'with contacts 234, 236 and 238 of switches 248, 242 and 244, respectively. Associated with the movable contacts 234, 236 and 238 are fixed contacts 246, 248 and 258, respectively. A-wire 252 electrically connects the contact 286 of the switch 288 with the contact 246 of the switch 248. The armature 226 is biased by a spring 253 in the same manner as the armature 228.' A wire 254 electrically connects the contact 248 of the switch 242 with the switch element I66, while the wire I88 electrically connects the contact 258 of the switch 244 with the contact I 16 in the switch I 84.

Associated with the relay I98 are three switches 256, 258 and 268. These switches respectively include fixed contacts 262, 264 and 266. Movable contacts 268, 218 and 212 are respectively associated with the contacts 262, 264 and 266. The contacts 268 through 212 are respectively connected with levers 214 mounted on a common pivot 216 and connected with the insulating body 218 of an armature 288 controlled by the relay I98, the latter being in turn controlled by the radio receiver unit I84. A spring 262 biases the armature 288 from the relay I88 upon predetermined deenergization thereof for closing the switches 256 through 268.

The wire I56 electrically connects the contact 266 in the switch 268 with the contact I52 in the switch I82. A wire 284 electrically connects the contact 264 in the switch 258 with the switch element I46 in the switch I82.

Three switches 286, 288 and 298 are operatively associated with the relay I92, the latter being controlled by the radio receiver unit I86. The switches 286 through 298 respectively include fixed contacts 292, 294 and 296, the contact 292 being electrically connected with the contact 262 by wire 298. Movable contacts 388, 382 and 384 are respectively associated with the fixed contacts 292, 294 and 296', the contacts 388 through 384 being respectively mounted on levers 386 having a common pivot 388 and operatively connected with an insulating body 3! of an armature 3I2 controlled by the relay I92 This armature is biased by a spring 3| 4 to close the switches 286, 288 and 298 upon predetermined deenergization of the relay I92. A wire 3I6 electrically connects the contact 294 of the switch 288 with the switch element I44 of the switch I82, and the contact 296 of the switch 298 is.

electrically connected with the wire I58 leading to the contact I54 of the switch I82.

Current is supplied to the radio receiver units I88 through I86 by a battery 3I6 to which a lead 3I8 is connected and electrically connected with the respective circuits of the radio receiver units I88 through I86. A second wire 328 is also electrically connected with the radio receiver circuits and with a switch element 322 of a control switch 324 which, when closed, supplies current to the radio receiver units I88 through I86. The

switch element 322 is biased to a closed position by a spring 326 for engagement with a contact 328 in the switch 324, this contact being elec- Iatrically connected with the battery 3I6 by a wire ,Normally the switch 324 is maintained in an open position, this switch being closed only as the bomb is released from the aircraft. Means for maintaining the switch in an open position comprises a line or cable 332 attached to a ring 334 which may be fastened in the same manner as the ring I36 to hold the switch 324 open until the bomb is released.

i The motors 18 and 88 receive operating current from a battery 336, this battery being connected with a wire 338. The other is connected with a control switch 342 comprising .a switch element 344 normally held in an open position by a line 346 attached to thering 334. The switch 342 includesa contact 848 en- -gageable by the element 344, the latter being biased to a closed position by a spring 358 when the ring 334 is released, so that the switches 342 and 324 are automatically and simultaneously closedupon release of the bomb from its bomb rack. The contact 348 is electrically connected with a line wire 352, the wire 338 constituting the second line wire from the battery 336. The switch 342 also controls the orientation circuit 354 of Figure 11, this, circuit controlling the operation 'of the orientation rudders 64. A I

In Figure 13 the contact 288 of the switch I96 is connected with a wire 356 lugged to the line wire 352, while the contact 2I8 of the switch I98 is connected with a wire 358 electrically connected with the contact 238 of the switch 244, as by a wire 368. A wire 362 electrically connects the contact 218 of the switch 258 withthe line wire 352, and a wire 364 electrically connects the contact 212 of the switch 268 with the contact 384 of the switch 298. A wire 366 connects the contact 234 of the switch 248 with the line wire 338. The corresponding contact 388'in the switch 286 is also electrically connected with the line a motor 18 is electrically connected with the wires 284 and 3I6, as at 31.8 and 388, respectively.

Wires 382 and 384 are electrically connected with the field of the motor 18, the wire 382 being electrically connected with the contact 384 of the switch 298. The wire 384 is electrically connected with the line wire 338.

The radio receiver units I through I 86 are subjected to the controlling influence of the control circuit 386, of Figure 12. This circuit includes radio transmitters 388, 398, 392 and 8-94 for respectively controlling the radio receiver units I 88 through I 86. While the circuit of Figures 11 and 13 are incorporated in the bomb, the control circuit of Figure 12 is incorporated in the aircraft from which the bomb is released, as well as in other aircrafts which may be employed as, a supplemental aid to the bomb releasing aircraft for directing the bomb to its target. In many cases, the bomber alone can amply handle the I side of the battery as that illustrated in Figure 12 to more eflec- -tively direct the bomb to its objective, as well as to explode the bomb.

The radio receiver units I through I06 are respectively tuned to the transmitting frequencies of the transmitters 388 through 394, respectively. In other words, the radio receiver unit I00 is functionally responsive to the frequency characteristics of the transmitter 388 only, which is also true of the radio receiver units I02, I04 and I06 with respect to the transmitting frequency characteristics of the transmitters 390, 392 and 394, respectively.

Aerials 396 are respectively provi'ded for the transmitters 388 through 394.

The transmitters 388 through 334 are functionally controlled by a master switch 398. This master switch includes four secondary switches 400, 402. 404 and 406 operatively connected with the transmitters 388, 390, 392 and 394, respectively. Each of the switches 400 through 406 comprises a fixed contact 408 and a movable contact 4), these contacts being electrically connected with their respective transmitter, as at H2 and M4, respectively. The switch 398 also includes a control rod or switch actuator 4I6 which is preferably mounted for pivotal movement for selectively actuating the switches 400 through 406. The secondary switches are grouped about the control rod 4I6 so that the latter may be manipulated in different directions for selective engagement with the movable contacts 4I0. These contacts are preferably so arranged that left, right, up and down movements of the control rod 4I6 closes the circuit through their respective transmitters for correspondingly imparting left, right, up or down deflection of the bomb.

In addition, the movable contacts 4! are so arranged that the control rod MS may simultaneously selectively engage two movable contacts M0 to modify the deflection of.the bomb from true left, right, up and down deflections. More specifically, the control rod 4I6 may be brought into engagement with the movable contacts 4I0 of the secondary switches 400 and 404 to close the circuits through the left and up directional transmitters 388 and 392, which in turn results in bringing the two radio receiver units E80 and I04 into play for imparting a combination left and upward deflection to the bomb. Movement of the control rod 4I6 into engagement with the movable contacts M0 of the secondary switches 484 and 402 similarly influences the radio receiver units I84 and I02 to cause right and upward deflection oi the bomb.

Right and down deflection of the bomb is determined by bringing the control rod 4I6 into engagement with the movable contacts 4H1 of the secondary switches 402 and 486, while down and left deflection of the bomb is determined by I18, through contacts I14 and I and to the wire 2-54, wire 312 to the motor armature and to wire 310 connected with the wire 224 which connects with the switch I96, and from this switch through wires 356 and 352 back to the battery. As the motor is energized, rotation of the worm I 84 imparts rotary motion to its worm gear 8-8 ture 288 by the spring 282.

engagement between the control rod 4I8 and the movable contacts of the secondary switches 400 and 406.

A signal transmitted by the transmitter 388 through closing of the secondary switch 400 influences the radio receiver unit I00 only, which results in a reduction, of the plate current and deenergizes the relay I86 in such an amount as to render the spring 222 effective for closing all the switches I96, I38 and 200. When the switches I96 and I98 are closed, the circuit through the motor is closed as follows: from the battery 336 to wire 338, wire 31-6 to the motor field, wire 314 to wire 368, through the switch I83 and to wire and longitudinal movement to the control rod 62.

The worm gear 88 is rotated in a direction which causes the control rod 62 to move to the left when viewing Figures 11 and 13. Such movement of the control rod pivots the rudders 32 in a direction which deflects the bomb to the left. So long as the secondary switch 400 is maintained in a closed condition by the control rod M6, the motor will continue its operation and the control .rod 62 will also continue its movement to the left. However, the motor 80 may be deenergized at will through opening of the secondary switch 400. If the secondary switch 400 is maintained in a closed condition for a given length of time, the control rod 62 moves sufficiently far to bring the insulating contact I62 into engagement with the switch element I66 to break the motor circuit.

To deflect the bomb to the right, the secondary switch 402 is closed by the control rod 4I6, which influences the radio receiver unit I02 to deenergize the relay L86 in an amount which permits the spring 254 to retract the armature 226 and close all the switches 240, 242 and 244. At this time, the motor circuit is closed as follows: from the battery 336 to the wire 338, wire 316 through the mot6r field and to wire 314, through switch 244 and to the wire I80, through contacts I16 and I12 and to the motor armature in a reverse direction, and then the wire 312, wire 254 through the switch 242 and to the wire 352 back to the battery 336.

Upon closing of the circuit through the motor 80 through the medium of the secondary switch 402, the motor is reversed and the control rod 62 is caused to move to the right when viewing Figures 11 and 13. This movement of the control rod 62 continues or may be controlled in the same manner as previously described with respect to its movement to the left.

To deflect the bomb upwardly, the secondary switch 404 isclosed to influence the radio receiver unit I84 and deenergize the relay I88 in an amount which permits retraction of the arma- Such retraction of the armature causes all the switches 256, 258 and 280 to close. I

Upon closing of the latter mentioned switches the circuit of the motor 18 is closed in the following manner: from the battery 336 to wires 338 and 384, through the field of the motor 18 and to the wire 382, wire 364 and through the switch 280, wire I56,contacts I52 and I48 and to the wire 3I6, wire 360 to'the armature of this motor and from the armature to the wires 318 and 284, switch 256 and to the wire 352 back to the battery 336. This will cause the motor 18 to operate and turn the worm 82 for imparting rotation to the worm gear 86 in such direction as to move the control rod 50 to the left, as when viewing Figures 11 and 13. Such movement of the control rod 50 pivots the rudders 30 to cause upward deflection of the bomb. With respect to deenergization of the motor 18, this is identical with that previously described in connection with the motor 60,

asaasss fluences the radio receiver unit I08 to decnergiz'e the relay 192 in an amount which permits'retraction of the armature 312 by the spring 8. Re-

. traction of the armature 3l2 causes all the switches 288, 288 and 290 to close. At this time, 5

the circuit. is closed through the motor 18' as follows: from the battery 886 to wires 838 and 384, through the field of the motor and to the wire 382, switch 290 and the wire I58, contacts I54 and I50, wire 318 and through the armature the motor 18 causes the control bar 50 to move to the right when viewing Figures 11 and 13, which pivots therudders 80 to impart downward defiection to the bomb. Deenergization of the motor 18 under these conditons is also identical l bearing means m. This shaft is fixedly connected with a cam member 450 provided with an am 452 constituting aswitch element, the cam and the arm being best illustrated in Figure 6. The arm $52 is formed of insulating material and includes a right angular part 454 upon which are fixedly mounted two conductors 556 and 658,3310- vided with contacts 680 and 682, respectively. In,

Figure 11, a wire 66d electrically connects the contact 880 with the armature or the motor am, a second wire 8 leading from the armature to the contact 462. The contact 460 is arranged for selective engagement with contacts Band Alt through movement of the arm 452, as the latter is rotated with the shaft M8. The contact 662 is arranged for selective engagement with contacts- 412 and $74 through the arm 552.

In Figure 6, the contacts G68 and A72 are same operation of the with that previously described in connection with go n e on a ppo t 476, While the contacts the motor 80. a

When the secondary switches 500 and 408 are simultaneously closed by the control rod M6,

7 both motors l8 and 80*are energized, in the an and m are mountedon a second support 613. These two supports are spaced one from the other to provide accommodation for the right angular part 454 or the arm 852, there ,being suflicient same manner as when energized individually 5- pa e to permit a slight amount of relative mov through selective closing of these secondary switches, for actuating both sets of rudders and 32 to cause deflection of the' bomb to the left and up. Simultaneous closing of the secondary switches 4M and 402 also energizes both motors 1B and 80, identically with individual energization thereof, tomove both sets of rudders 30 and 32 to cause the bomb to be deflected upwardly and to the right. Simultaneous closing of the secondary switches 402 and 406 and 408 85 and 400 cause actuation of the rudders 30 and 32 to deflect the bomb downwardly and to the right and downwardly and to the left, respectively.

Rotation of the bomb about its longitudinal ment between the part land the two supports. The supports 416 and 41B comprise a flxedpart with an upstanding arm 480 pivotally mounted on a pin 482-threaded into a support 88% fixedly se- 30 cured in any suitable manner inside the bomb.

' The shaft 8 is coaxial with the pin 582, and the upstanding member sac lies against the support 484 and is .pressed thereagainst by a compression spring 486- interposed between the head of the pin and the member. .This member depends from the pin $82 and is provided with a weight set Khich balances the member in its upright posion.

A weight 490 depends from the shaft 658 to axis is controlled by the orientation circuit s54. maintain the arm n an u ris tposinon as This circuitincludes a reversible motor M8 which drives a worm 620 meshing with the worm gear 16. The orientation rudders 66 rotate about a common axis arranged radially with respect toe the longitudinal axis of the bomb 20. may be caused to rotate about its longitudinal axis through adjustment of the orientation rudders to such angular positions as to cause the latter to function with a screw or rotary action with respect to thebomb. F

Included in the orientation circuit 354 is a gyroscope mechanism 422 comprising gyroscope units 824. The units424 include a frame 28. The frame 426 is mounted inside a ring 828 and The bomb h ring connected with two fixed contacts 698 and 49B.

-The contacts 398 and see are incorporated in switches 500 and 502, respectively, these switches being respectively provided with movable contacts a 504 and 508 normally engaging the contacts 598 is pivotally supported therein for movement about and 593, p ve y an axis 430. The frame 426 is provided with two gyro rotors 632 which rotate about axes 534. The axes 434 comprise shafts rotatably iournaled in the frame 526, these shafts being arranged at an The movable contact 504 is connected withwire 508 leading to a switch 5M and connected with a fixed contact H2 in that switch. The corresponding contact 506 in the switch 502 is conangle of 90 degrees to each other, and each shaft nected .with a wire 5M leading to a switch BIB is arranged at an angle of 45 degrees to the axis 430. Each axis or shaft 434 is driven by a motor $38, these motors being electrically connected with the line wires 33 8 and 352.

and is connected with a fixed contact M8 in that switch. A movable contact 520 is normally electrically enga ed with thecontact 512 and is connected with a wire 522 leading to the contact The ring 428 is supported in ahalf circular yoke 4 milarly the contact 5! 8 is normally en- 438 for pivotal movement about an axis 440, this axis being at right angles to the axis Q30. Light tensioned springs 442 are connected with the ring 428 and with a projection M4 fixed to the yoke 38 gaged with a movable contact 52s, the latter being connected with a wire 52'! leading to the contact M4. The contact 610 is electrically connected with the wire $52, which is also true of the to yieldlngly bias the ring 428 to aright angular contact Q12,

A resistance 530 bridges the wires 508 and 522, while the resistance 532 bridges the wires 5M and 521. The cam A50 includes-projections 52B and 528 respectively engageable with the contacts 528 shaft being rotatably supported in a suitable and 526 to open the switches 5H) and SIB upon 1 l a predetermined rotation of the bomb relatively to the gyroscope mechanism 422. The member 488 of Figure 6 is so balanced as. to turn with the bomb as it rotates about its longitudinal axis, but the spring 488 is so loaded as to provide little resistance to rotation of the member about the pin 482. The gyroscope mechanism 422 maintains the axis 488 horizontally in all positions of the bomb, so that the arm 482 is always arranged at right angles to the axis 488 sincedt is fixedly related to the yoke 488. Thus the member 488' gyroscope mechanism wherein the axis of the gyroscepe rotor might be positioned in parallelism with an axis corresponding to that of the shaft 448.

After release of the bomb, rotation of the bomb about its longitudinal axis in either direction shifts the member 488 relatively to the arm 482, so that the contacts 488 and 412 on one side and the contacts1418 and 414 on the other side are shifted relatively to the stationary contacts 488 and 482. Since the switch 842 is closed immediately upon release "of the bomb, current is supplied to the gyroscope motors 488 so that these units are set in operation immediately upon release of the bomb. 1

Should the bomb rotate in one direction sufflciently far to bring the contacts 488 and 482 into engagement with the contacts 488 and 412, the circuit through the motor 418 is closed as follows: from line wire 888 to wire 482 and the field of the motor 418, from which the current flows to the wire 484, contacts 488 and 884, the

12 direction, any unintended rotation of the bomb being, limited to slight oscillation within the operating relationships between the two sets of contacts-488 and 412 and the contacts 488 and and the latter and the two contacts 418 an The switches 818 and 818 have fixed positions in th bomb, so that rotation of the bomb causes relative shifting of the movable contacts 828 and 824 with respect to the cam projections 828 and 828, respectively. With respectdothe cam projection 828, the switch 818 remains closed until after contact has been established between I the contacts 488 and 482 and the two contacts 418 and 414. Continued rotation of the bomb after such contact-has been established shifts the movable contact 828 sufficiently far with respect to the cam projection 828 as to cause the latter to move the contact 828 out of engagement with the contact 812. As the orientation rudders become efiective for imparting reverse rotation to the bomb, the contacts 488 and 482 are brought into engagement with the contacts 488 and 412, which rev rses the motor, and ad- Justs the orientation ru ders '84 back to normal and slightly beyond so as to balance the righting adjustment of the bomb.

' Since the switch 818 was in an open condition during engagement between the contacts 488 and 482 and their contacts 488 and 412, the speed of the motor was reduced because of the resistance 888 so as to operatethc motor at a desirablelow speed to dampen the turning movement of the bomb as it approaches its normal position. Should the bomb be turned beyond its normal position, the switch 818 closes as the bomb reaches its normal position, which again shunts the resistance 828 out of the moto r circuit so that the orientation rudders 84 may be more speedily adjusted to resist continued rotation oi the bomb beyond normal. The switch 818 functions identically with the switch 818,

' but the two switches are alternately brought wire 888 and contacts 812 and 828, wire 822,

contacts 488 and 488, wire 484 to the armature of the motor and then to wire 488 and through the contacts 482 and 412, the latter being electrically connected with the line wire 882.

When the motor circuit is closed in the foregoing manner, the worm 428 is rotated to impart rotation to the worm gear18 which in turn actuates the links 18 and rotates the orientation rudders 84- simultaneously in opposite directions to bring the bomb back toward its normal position. Excessive rotation of the gear 18 is controlled in'either direction by the limit switches 888 and 882. 1

Rotation ofthe bomb aboutits longitudinal axis reversely of that previously described brings the contacts 488 and 482 into-engagement with the contacts 418 and 414, so that the circuit will-be closed through the motor in the following order: from line wire 888 to wire 482, the field. of the motor and wire 484, the contacts 488 and 888, wire 814, contacts 818 and 824, wire 821, contacts 414 and 482, wire 488 to the armature of the motor in a reverse direction and then to the wire 484, and the contacts 488 and 418,

the latter being connected with the line wire direction from that previously described.

It will thus be seen that rotation of the bomb about its longitudinal axis is controlled in either into play so that the bomb is oriented toward normal in the same manner in either direction.

Referring to Figure 7, a cup 884 is attached to the tail end of the bomb 28 and is located between the inner ends of the rudders 38 and 82. This cup is'open at its rear end and is supplied with an illuminating flare material 538, which may be illuminated after release of the bomb to provide an observable pilot which aids the operator in visually determining the position of the bomb, particularly under operating conditions wherethe bomb must travel to such a distance that the bomb alone is not readily visible to the operator.

The material 888 may be ignited at will. Means for igniting the material comprises a control or spring biased push button 888, see Figure 12, which includes a plunger 848 arranged to engage an insulating body 842 to which movable contacts 844 and 848 are attached. The contacts 844 and 848 are respectively movable into engagement with contacts 848 and 888, respectively. The contact 844 is connected with a wire 882 electrically connected. with the wire 884 leading from the contact 418 to the transmitter 384. A wire 888 leads from the contact 848 to the wire 888 which leads from the contact 488 to the transmitter 384. The contacts 848 and 888 are respecis caused to strike the cap 888 upon energization oi the'solenoid 888.

In Figure 13 a high resistance relay 888 is lelectrically connected with the line wire ass by a wire 518. The second wire 872 of the relay is lugged to a wire 814 which leads from the movable .contact 268 of the switch 288, and to a low resistance relay 818; Associated-with the relay 888 is a switch 818 which" includes anarmature 888 adapted to be attracted by the relay 888 when the latter is energired. The switch 818' includes a .contact 882 which may be moved into engagement with a fixed contact 888 through movement of the armature 888. A wire 888 connects the contact 588 with the wire 882, and a resistance 588 is connected across the wires 888 and 812.

Before the bomb is released from the aircraft, the switches 828 and 382 are held in open positions, and the switch 818 also remains inan open position. Upon release of 1 the bomb the switches 828 and 342 close,- the closing of the switch 828. energizing the radio receiver units I88 through 188. ing of the circuits through the radio receiver units cause elnergization of the relays I88 through I92 for attracting all the armatures 228, 228, 288 and 3l2 to the positions of Figure 13. Upon separation of the contacts 288 and 888 from their respective Clos- I medium of a p1ung'er'8i8, see

8 88 and ignite the flare material. .Closingbi the 7 switch 8l8-connects the relays 588 and 878 in series, but since the relay 888 is oi-a high resistance, insufilcient current will be delivered. to.

the relay' 818 to influence the armature 888, the relay 878 being of low resistance. 7, Thus the, ig-' nitlng oi the flare material 838 is controlled at Mean is provided-for firing the bomb at will. Such means includes a solenoid 882 for actuating a firing element or armature 888 arranged to strike a percussion cap or other firing means 888 upon energization of the solenoid882. The

solenoid 882 is connected in a control circuit 888 which includes a high resistance relay'8l8 and a low resistance relay 8|2 corresponding to the relays 888 and 518, respectively. The solenoid 882 is-identical with the solenoid 588 so far as its electrical circuit and operation are concerned, with the exception that the circuit 888 is electrically related to the two radio receiver units 588 and J82, the latter being functionally controlled for bomb firing purposes through the Figure 12. The plunger M8 is spring biased to a normal position and includes a pressure button 8l6. An in sulating'body M8 is connected with movable contacts 828 and 822 arranged to beslmultaneously and respectively moved into; engagement with fixed contacts 828 and 828. A.wlre 828 electrically connect the contacttzll with'the tr'ans mitter 888, a wire 838 electrically connecting the contact 828 with the transmitter 888. Wires 832 and 838 respectively connect the contacts 822 and 828 with the transmitter 888. Thus the transmitters 388 and 398 are controlled through macontacts 282 and 282, the relay 888 is energized and the switch 818 is caused to close and remain in a closed position by reason of a latch 588. The relay 588 is caused to energize as follows: from the battery 388 through the-wires 888 and 818 and to the. relay 888, from therelay through thewire 512 through the resistance 588, the wire 588 and back to the line wire 352. Prior to energization of the relays I88 and I82, the switches 288 and 288 were closed thereby short circuiting the relay 588 to prevent closing of the switch 818. With the switches258 and 288 in their closed positions, the current would flow as follows: from the battery 888 to the wire 352, the wire 888 and the resistance 588 to the wire 8'12. wire 518, switch 258, wire 288, switch 288, wires 388 and 338 to the battery 888. a

Electrically connected with the armature 588 is a wire 582 which leads to the relay 518, this relay being electrically connected with the wire 578. With the switch 518'in a closed position, current may flow from the wire 352 through the wire 888, contacts 888 and 582, the armature 588, wire 582, the relay 518 and through the switch 258, wire'288, switch 288, the wire 388 to the line wire nipulation of the plunger 8 l 8 in the same manner as the transmitters 382 and 398 with respect to the plunger 548.

It will thus be seen that have provided a bomb which may be effectively controlled from a distant position so that thebomb may be efiectively and accurately guided to' the target. The

bomb also embodies mean whereby the pilot light 46- conditions wherein the bomb .is 'not otherwise enablesthe. operator to trace the bomb under readily visible. The bomb also may be exploded at will. The circuit of Figure -12 embodies simple controls wherein applied pressure to the plungers 588 and 8| 4 respectively brings the flare and exploding facilities into operation.

338, assuming that both radio receiver units J88 tact 588 into engagement with a fixed contact 888 wired at 888 to the solenoid 888, the armature 888 being electrically connected with the line wire 888. Such movement of the armature 588 closes the circuit through the solenoid 684 since the latter is electrically connected with the line wire 852 and causes the armature 582 to strike the cap The bomb is effectively restrained from objectionable rotation about its longitudinal axis. In"- case where the bomb rotates in either direction from normal, the bomb is reversely rotated back toward normal in an effective and gentle manner soas to-eliminate objectionable rapid adjustments which natural y render the bomb adjustment erratic. Y

In view oi'j'the fact that bombs of this type are usually'dropped from a considerable height, the longitudinal axis of the bomb does not necessarily at any time lie horizontally. Accordingly,

any reference to the vertical positions of the arm 852 and member 888 of Figure 6 does not imply true vertical position 'of these elements at all times, but denotes a perpendicular position with respect to a plane common to thelongitudinal axisof the bomb and the axis 838.

The aerials 88 when in the positions of Figures 1,2 and 3, are closely nested about the bomb 28 so as to provide a compact arrangement, one which does not interfere with the bomb racks, or handling of the bomb both with respect to storage and loading. 1

upon its release,

dled. Obviously the bomb has its center or gravity so located as to facilitate proper endwise travel the bomb, the airioils 24-and 28 having carrying functions which facilitate horizontal movement and deflection of the bomb with respect to impinging air pressures effective on the airfoils. The airfoil 28 and the rudders 30 and 82 perform an efllcient steering function, both with re-- spect to travel of the bomb with the rudders in neutral positions and when adjusted centrally or in combination to bomb deflecting purposes.

. mal, and imparts turning movement to the b The switch 398 of Figure 12 is so devised as to facilitate selective manipulation of the control rod 6, which rod is so arranged with respect to the secondary switches 400 through 406 as to be located within the surrounding arrangement of the secondary switches to the end that the control rod is easily shifted to switch selecting positions, both with respect to the secondary switches singly or in combination.

While practically all bombs released from aircraits drop with a nonrotational movement, there are a few cases in which the bomb releasing mech anism might impart some rotational movement to the bomb. Irr-cases where a considerable rotational movement might be imparted to the bomb as it is released, such movement does not impair the functioning or the steering mechanism. Even though the bomb should be turned one or more complete turns, no harm is done to the structure of Figure-6, notwithstanding the fact that i the arm 452 is maintained in an unvariable given this arm is confined between position. While the portions 418 and 418 of the member 480, the latter member is rotatably mounted on the pin 482, so'that the member may be rotated without obstruction from the'pin' or the bearing 484. The spring 486 offers no objectionable resistance in this connection.--- The gyroscope mech anism 422 will always-remain in a position where its axis 430 is parallel. .to the horizontal.

Assuming a conditionwherein the bomb is released in its normal position-but is rotated slightly tor example, an eighth of a turn from normal in either direction, the motor4l8 is immediately energized for adjusting the orientation rudders 64 to positions for imparting I righting movement to the bomb. The rudders 84 are adjusted rapidly to this position.

As the bomb starts-its righting movement, the rudders are slowly pivoted toward normal positions and beyond to dampen righting movement bomb. The bomb will mal, at which time the rudders 6-4 are again quickly adjusted to impart a righting movement to the bomb, the latter turning beyond normal but in a lesser degree. Thus the bomb oscillates in a progressively decreasing amount until it becomes stable, characterized by slight oscillatory movement or the bomb.

The fast and slow adjustingmovements of theorientation ruddersM-respectively take place as .to normal and beyond, which arrests rightin movement or the bomb before it returns to noraway trom normal, but the rudders are then rapidly adjusted to positions for turning the bomb toward normal. This'oscillatory movement of the bomb continues, with the bomb progressively advancing to normal until the bomb flnall reaches its stable condition.

In a eondition'where the bomb is caused to spin upon its release, which is an exception, the orientation rudders 84 are immediately rendered effective for retarding the spin.

Should the bomb be stopped in its rotation three quarters ofa turn beyond normal, the rudders are setto turn the bomb away from normal. As the bomb starts to turn away from normal, the rudders are adjusted rapidly to righting positions. As the bomb turns toward normal, the rudders are slowly adjusted toward normal and beyond. As the bomb again turns away 'means may be employed for illumination purposes, particularly when positioned in advance of the bomb. Obviously such a means may be 6011-. nected in series with the flare igniting circuit, or substituted in lieu of the flare feature.

In Figures 11 and 13, the switches actuated by the relays I88 through I92 are closed when the switches 324 and 342 are open, as before the bomb is released.

of the turn slightly beyond norj the resistances 530 and 532 are respectively outside and within the motor circuit effective at that time, the resistances being respectively in the motor circuit during turning movement of the bomb toward normal from either position.

Assuming a condition wherein the bomb is released in a normal position but is rotated in a.

considerable degree upon its release, for exam- Without further elaboration, the foregoing will so fully explain my invention, that others may,

by applying current knowledge, readily adapt the same for use under various conditions of service.

I claim: 1. In combination, an aerial bomb having airfoils extending the length thereof and circumi'e'rentially spaced thereabout, a first rudder means at the rear end of the bomb for controlling the flight oi the same in one plane, a second rudder means at right angles to said first rudder means and positioned at the rear end of the bomb for controlling the flight or thesame in a plane normal to said first mentioned plane, a first reciprocating means attached to said first rudder means for actuating the same, a second reciprocating means attached to said second rudder means for actuating the same, 'a first and a second reversible electric 'motor, mechanical means interconnecting said reversible electric motors with said respective reciprocating means for actuating the same, a source or electrical enpair of radio receiver units carried by said bomb for controlling said second reversible electric motor, each of said radio receiver units being responreceiver units, a pair or said relay mechanisms -sive respectively to radio impulses of diflerent predetermined radio frequencies, an electric re-M. lay mechanism controlled by each 01 said radioassumes interposed between said source or energy and each or said reversible motors, respectively, each said relay mechanism of a pair controlling the energiaation and a direction of rotation or one of said reversible motors. an illuminating flare device attached to said aerial bomb whereby flight oi the same may be observed, electromagnetic igniting means for causing ignition of said flare device, electric circuit means associated with said electromagnetic igniting means and with a pair oi said relay mechanisms whereby simultaneous actuation oi the same by a pair of radio receiver units upon simultaneous receipt oi radio impulses by the same will activate said electric circuit means to operate said electromagnetic igniting means.

2. The combination as set forth in claim 1 and a pair of orientation rudders pivoted diametrical- 1y on said bomb normal to the longitudinal axis thereof and intermediate the ends thereof for controlling rotation in azimuth of said bomb about its longitudinal axis, linkage mean for simultaneously rotating said orientation rudders in opposite directions to control rotation in azimuth of said bomb about its longitudinal axis, a reversible electric motor, mechanical means connecting the same with said linkage means for controlling operation of the same, circuit means connecting said motor with the source of electrical energy, a yoke pivoted to said bomb, gyroscopic means carried by said yoke for stabilizing the same in azimuth, switch means interposed between the source of energy and said reversible electric motor for controlling the flow and direction to same, and cam means operated by said yoke for actuating said switch means upon rotation oi said bomb in azimuth about its longitudinal 5X18.

GER-HARD G. OHLENDORF.

REFERENCES CITED The following references are of record in the file 01 this patent:

v UNITED STATES PATENTS Number Name Date 1,597,416 Mirick Aug. 24, 1926 1,384,888 Sperry et al July 19, 1921 1,506,785 Sperry Sept. 2, 1924 2,165,800 Koch July 11, 1939 2,158,180 Goddard May 18, 1939 2,834,503 Paton Nov. 16, 1943 2,406,293 Hammond Aug. 20, 1946 2,407,936 Rost et al. Sept. 17, 1940 FOREIGN PATENTS Number Country Date 17,540 France July 28, 1913 (1st addition to 449,265) 747,286 France Mar. 28, 1983 

